Get ready for an epic showdown at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, a PGA TOUR spectacle that's about to unfold! The stage is set, and the stars are aligned for an unforgettable battle.
This year, the TOUR returns to its legendary grounds, and with it, a thrilling lineup of golf's elite. World No. 2 Rory McIlroy, fresh off his 2025 triumph, is back to defend his title in his first appearance of the season. But he's not alone; fellow European Ryder Cup teammates Shane Lowry and Tommy Fleetwood, the reigning FedExCup champion, are also making their TOUR debuts this season, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.
The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is more than just a golf tournament; it's a Signature Event, featuring an exclusive field of 80 of the TOUR's finest players. These golfers have earned their spot through their impressive finishes in the 2025 FedExCup standings or by making a strong start in 2026 via the Aon Swing 5. It's a showcase of the very best in the sport, and the competition is sure to be fierce.
But here's where it gets controversial... The field includes some big names, like World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who's making his third appearance on the Monterey Peninsula and has already won this season at The American Express. He's a force to be reckoned with, but so is Chris Gotterup, the man who emerged victorious in a thrilling overtime battle at the WM Phoenix Open. Gotterup is currently sitting atop the FedExCup standings, and with four wins under his belt already this year, he's a serious contender.
And let's not forget Justin Rose, the 2023 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am champion, who's back in action after a week off following his victory at the Farmers Insurance Open. He'll be joined by FedExCup champ Tommy Fleetwood and Shane Lowry, who came close to starting his year with a win on the DP World Tour but ultimately fell short.
The highest-ranked players in the field include:
- Chris Gotterup
- Scottie Scheffler
- Rory McIlroy
- Justin Rose
- Tommy Fleetwood
- Si Woo Kim
- Pierceson Coody
- Matt McCarty
- Patrick Rodgers
- Ryo Hisatsune
- Jason Day
But here's the part most people miss... These players aren't the only ones with a shot at glory. Eight-time PGA TOUR winner Billy Horschel, who's been battling a hip injury, is in the field on a sponsor exemption. He's determined to make his mark this season. And don't forget about Tony Finau, the newly announced Jordan brand ambassador, who's also teeing it up on a sponsor exemption. He'll be looking to make a statement at Pebble Beach.
Signature Event Storylines: The Aon Swing 5 was finalized at the WM Phoenix Open, with Pierceson Coody, Ryo Hisatsune, Jake Knapp, Matt McCarty, and Patrick Rodgers securing the five coveted positions. These players earned their spot in the next two Signature Events, including this week's AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. It's a testament to their skill and determination, and they'll be looking to make their mark on the tournament.
The course itself is a challenge, with a two-course rotation since 2024 due to the smaller Signature Event field. Pebble Beach Golf Links, a par 72 course spanning 6,989 yards, and Spyglass Hill Golf Course, a par 72 layout at 7,071 yards, will test the players' skills and strategy.
Last time around, it was a thrilling finish. Rory McIlroy prevailed in a tight battle, sinking an 18-foot birdie putt on the 10th hole to take the lead and sealing the deal with an eagle at the 571-yard 14th hole. He finished with a remarkable 6-under 66, securing a two-stroke victory. Shane Lowry, who had a bogey at the sixth, fought back with a strong 31 on the back nine, earning him second place. Lucas Glover and Justin Rose tied for third, while Sepp Straka, who led going into the final round, finished with a 72, tying for seventh. Scottie Scheffler, making his season debut after recovering from an injury, closed with a solid 67, tying for ninth.
So, who will emerge victorious this year? Tune in to find out! The action starts on Monday with special programming, including "The Drop" on Golf Channel and the TGL Match 8 on ESPN2. Television coverage continues throughout the week, with PGA TOUR LIVE on ESPN+ offering an exclusive four-stream experience. Will Rory McIlroy defend his title? Can Chris Gotterup maintain his winning streak? Or will another contender steal the spotlight? Find out as the PGA TOUR takes center stage at Pebble Beach.
Don't miss a moment of this thrilling tournament! Stay tuned, and let the debate begin in the comments. Who do you think will take home the trophy?
